What is an Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund and the Salute Auction are the core of our fundraising efforts at St. Paul’s. While there are many other “fundraisers,” they are often geared toward a particular class trip, or enrichment. While I encourage you to continue to support all fundraising efforts, the best way to truly support every student at St. Paul’s is by giving to the Annual Fund.

St. Paul’s relies on Annual Fund contributions to bridge the gap between tuition and operational expenses. Many of you came to the financial presentations earlier this year and saw that our total expense per student is $11,794. Our tuition is $7,357 per student. It doesn’t take a mathematician to see how valuable your extra assistance is to supporting our students' education.

Often people don’t give because they feel their gift may not match our large donors. I am here to tell you- no gift is too small. In fact, the amount of people that give is more important than the amount given.

The percentage of people that participate is tied to the magnitude of our success. One of the first things that outside agencies (such as our accrediting bodies) look at is the percentage of participation in the Annual Fund. Other corporations, banks, or foundations that may be willing to support St. Paul’s with grants, loans, or scholarships also use this number as a barometer. These groups need to see giving from individuals within the school community before they make an institutional contribution. In this sense, a $10 gift is just as valuable as a $10,000 gift.

So, how is our parent participation so far this year? Heather Black, our development director, has created a great way for you to see our participation grow. Each time we reach 25, 50, 75 or 100% percent of class parent participation another square goes to our quilt.

Thank you to all of you who have already given. If you have not donated yet, there are pledge forms below the quilt in the lower school or you may make a donation by contacting Heather Black. Let’s make this year, the year we reach 100% participation!